CBC Archives

Write the words Parliament and Supreme Court on the board and ask students to provide you all of the facts that they know about these organization’s roles and structures. Record their responses.

Explain to students that they will be examining the issue of euthanasia in Canada and exploring the case of one woman’s battle to end her life. Have students explore the topic Sue Rodriguez and the Right-to-Die on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site for about 45 minutes. Students should note the arguments for and against assisted suicide and the right-to-die. Students should record the clip numbers and the important facts and information from each.

In groups of four or five, students share their opinions and complete a group list outlining the arguments for and against assisted suicide.

Invite each group to present its list of pros and cons to the class. As students share, create a t-chart on the board and record student responses. After all the presentations, give the students an opportunity to add more points to either side. Ask: What is your “gut reaction” to assisted suicide and the right-to-die? Are you for or against? In reviewing the list on the board, do any of the points make you rethink your initial reactions?

Students can write a letter to their MP, using proper formal letter-writing format, expressing their views on euthanasia. Ask them to share with the class any responses they receive.